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Japan flagKoichiro
I think or I thought I've received many emails about the recommendation of services and products. One sentence attracts my notice. It is "I thought you'd like to check it out." I just wondered the difference between "I think that ...." and "I thought that ..." I understand time tense is different however are there any differences in the meaning? Or is either grammatically incorrect?

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1

I think or I thought?

I've received many emails about the recommendation of services and products.
One sentence has attracted my attention: "I thought you'd like to check it out."
I just wondered wonder what is the difference between "I think that ...." and "I thought that ..."

I understand that the time aspect tense is different; however, are there any differences in the meaning?
Or is either one grammatically incorrect?

Hi Koichiro,

Yes, there is a difference. The past tense is used to express a social distance even though the person may be speaking to you at the moment or the sentence you are reading is still expressing a current idea. Social distancing is used to show formality, politeness and respect. 

Example: You are knocking on your professor's door as you would like to consult him on something.

Professor: Yes? 

You: Professor Brown, I was wondering if you had some time to discuss my thesis?" 

Notice the use of past tense to show a social distance between the professor and you. After all, you may not know him on a close personal basis and it would be wise to show some respect. Think of it as a handshake. You would extend your hand and offer a handshake to someone whom you have just met while keeping a comfortable distance with your arm outstretched (I don't think you would want to hug a person whom you have just met!). 

In your sentence, the sales representative would like to request that you check out their services or products and is doing so while keeping a respectful social distance so that he or she appears professional and formal in their communication.

I hope this helps. 

0

I think or I thought

I've received many emails about the recommendation of services and products.
I wonder the difference between "I think that you'd like to check ...." and "I thought that you'd like to check..."

I understand time tense is different however are there any differences in the meaning?
Or is either grammatically incorrect?

I am not too sure about this, but for me the first sentence seems correct, the second sentence doesn't sound right but again I am not sure, maybe some else will have a better answer.


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